End envy for good in seven key areas

Overcoming Jealousy

Overcoming Jealousy

As thrilled as you are that your inner circle consists of successful, happy women, it’s normal to question whether you’re as successful and happy as they are. “Women instinctively compare themselves to their friends,” explains Irene Levine, PhD, professor of psychiatry at the New York University School of Medicine and author of Best Friends Forever: Surviving a Breakup with Your Best Friend. “When a friend has more of something or does something better—whether it’s looks, a career, a family or money—it’s natural to feel some degree of jealousy.” But competition can cause you to be aggressive toward your pal or avoid her completely. “Being aware of your envy is a good first step because you can devise strategies to overcome the negative consequences of that feeling,” says Dr. Levine. Not sure how to deal with your competitive streak? Try these solutions for beating seven common jealousy triggers.

Bigger House

Bigger House

The problem: Your abode is smaller than your fellow homeowner’s.

The fix: If a more spacious home is your main priority, it’s not impossible to attain, says Jan Yager, a friendship coach and author of When Friendship Hurts: How to Deal With Friends Who Betray, Abandon, or Wound You. You could move to a larger house in a less expensive neighborhood, she suggests. But most of the time, there’s no compelling reason to feel jealous over a McMansion. “Think of all the negatives associated with a huge house,” she says, such as extra effort to maintain it and expensive utility bills to pay. Also, concentrate on what you do well around the house. Invite your buddy over and show off your gardening skills or cookie-baking prowess.